Definitions

1. noun

a person who practices self-mortification or flagellation, especially as a form of penance or devotion

“The medieval flagellants believed their self-inflicted wounds would bring them closer to God.”

2. noun

a person who beats or flogs another, especially in a brutal or excessive manner

“The corrupt cop was accused of being a flagellant, using his position to torment innocent civilians.”

3. verb

to flog or beat someone or something, especially in a brutal or excessive manner

“The angry mob flagellated the corrupt politician, demanding justice for the victims.”